The Amplifying Rights Network (ARN) convened its Annual General Assembly this week, bringing together Network Members to discuss progress and strategies for advancing Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) in Liberia.
The General Assembly held in Margibi County, served as a platform for ARN’s 10-member organizations to reflect on achievements, address challenges, and set priorities for the 2025.
Representatives from government agencies, international partners, and grassroots advocacy groups participated in discussions aimed at strengthening Liberia’s SRHR policies and programs.
In her opening remarks, the convener of the GA, Salome Tulay, highlighted the network’s progress in amplifying marginalized voices and advocating for comprehensive SRHR services.
“This gathering is a testament to our commitment to ensuring that every Liberian has access to the rights and healthcare they deserve,” she stated.
The event focused on the Network’s annual work-plan, teambuilding, reports from different committees as well as discussions on the impacts of ARN’s past initiatives, including community outreach programs and policy advocacy efforts supported by international partners like the Swedish Federation of Sexuality Education (RFSU).
Elaborating on the ARN formation and putting the Network in context, the outgoing Chairperson, Naomi Tulay Solanke, outlined the specific role of each organization in the Network.
She added that in order to provide holistic SRHR in Liberia, it is important to recognize that people access to SRHR services differently therefore bringing people together from different communities as a network worth celebrating.
Highlighting the Network’s achievements, Facia B. Harris, the incoming chairperson of the network stressed the intentionality of the Network messaging.
“One of the things we are being able to do as a network, is to really work hard on inclusive SRHR messaging” Atty Harris emphasized.
She acknowledged that though the Network have had challenges ranging from cultural, traditional and political backlash, to political will, and high risk to Human Rights Defenders but there have been breakthrough.
She stressed the importance of evidence based advocacy in the work the Network does.
In closing, Amb. Ambassador Karl Backéus of the Embassy of Sweden thanked the Network for the hard work; recognizing the difficulties in pushing for holistic SRHR in Liberia.
“Thank you very much for the very important work you do, this is a key issue and you know that we got your backs and we are very proud to support you…Keep it up” Amb. Backéus added.
In May 2023, ARN hosted Liberia’s inaugural Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights Conference at the Ministerial Complex.
This landmark event brought together stakeholders from various sectors to discuss and promote SRHR initiatives within the country.
As of January 2025, ARN continues to play a pivotal role in strengthening the capacity of civil society organizations in Liberia, fostering collaboration, and advocating for comprehensive SRHR policies and programs.
During the Assembly, members reaffirmed their dedication to advancing SRHR and outlined strategies to strengthen collaboration among civil society organizations.
The GA concluded with a renewed commitment to engaging policymakers and communities to drive meaningful change.
As ARN moves forward, members emphasized the importance of sustained advocacy, resource mobilization, and inclusive dialogue to ensure that SRHR remains a national priority.
The next General Assembly is set to take place at about the same time where members will reconvene to assess progress and strategize for the future.
The ARN is a coalition of ten member organizations dedicated to advancing SRHR in Liberia.
Established under the “Amplifying Voices” project, a four-year initiative (2021-2024) funded by Sweden and implemented by the Swedish Federation of Sexuality Education (RFSU), ARN aims to empower Liberian civil society organizations to advocate for SRHR for all.
